Student guide Faculty of Economics A.Y. 2008/09

Workshop in Comparative Markets and International Supply Chain
Lesson timetable, Notice board, Additional material
Aim of the course
The lectures aim to provide a comprehensive country overview of the U.S. market economic system underpinned by, a discussion of the political and economic framework and an analysis of specific, industrial sectors. Also, case studies on “Supply Chain” will be an integral part of the course methodology.
 
The unique features and peculiarities of the U.S. market system illustrate an economic environment that has become vastly more competitive, more open in terms of international trade, investment and capital markets, and where government support to business has become more targeted and results-oriented. Most important, the U.S. market gives an insight into the increased openness and globalization of the world economies. This means addressing trade liberalization and economic integration within sectors.
 
The instructional methodology of the course modules through didactic class discussions will strike a balance between economic theory and practice, within the context of the U.S. experience. Particular attention is given to evolving economic ideas amplified in a country overview; political overview; economic overview; corporate/enterprise sector; environmental trends; and forecast scenarios.
Syllabus
Course Modules:      Instructional Format for the 14 Class Sessions
 
Module I.                   Country Overview
 
A.     Economic Highlights
B.     Current Data
C.     Comment and Analysis
 
References: Colander, David C. Macroeconomics, Fourth Edition, 2001.
         Chapter 3. The U.S. Economy in a Global Setting, pp. 55-74.
         The PRS Group, Inc. 2001. ISSN: 1054-6278
 
Module II.                 Political Overview
 
A.      People, History, Government
B.       Political Conditions and Government Organization
C.      Foreign Relations and Defense Resources
 
References: Colander, David C. Macroeconomics, Fourth Edition, 2001.
    Chapter 6. Economic Growth, Business Cycles, Unemployment, and    
    Inflation, pp. 132-154.
    Chapter 8. Growth, Productivity, and the Wealth of Nations, pp. 181-201.
         The PRS Group, Inc. 2001. ISSN: 1054-6278
Module III.                Economic Overview
 
A.      Economic Conditions
B.       Macroeconomic Activity
C.      Key Sectors
 
References: Colander, David C. Macroeconomics, Fourth Edition, 2001.
                     Chapter 12. Politics, Surpluses, Deficits, and Debt, pp. 274-292.
                     Chapter 15. Inflation and Its Relationship to Unemployment and Growth,
         pp. 350-368.
         The PRS Group, Inc. 2001. ISSN: 1054-6278
 
Module IV.                Corporate/Enterprise Sector
 
A.      Investment Overview
B.       Taxation
C.      International Supply Chain- Parmalat and Nike Case Studies
1. The lectures address the increasing complexity in today’s global markets and provide a blueprint, on how management and organizations should conquer these demands.
 
References: Colander, David C. Macroeconomics, Fourth Edition, 2001.
                     Chapter 11. Demand Management Policy, pp. 252-270.
                     Chapter 16. Open Economy Macro: Exchange Rate and Trade Policy,
         pp. 372-391.
         The PRS Group, Inc. 2001. ISSN: 1054-6278
 
Module V.                  Environmental Trends
 
A.      Environmental Issues
B.       Globalization Effects
C.      Pollution Trends
 
References: Colander, David C. Macroeconomics, Fourth Edition, 2001.
                     Chapter 18. Tools, Rules and Policy, pp. 414-432
         The PRS Group, Inc. 2001. ISSN: 1054-6278
 
Module VI.                Forecast Scenarios
 
A.      Most Likely Five-Year Regime Scenario: Divided Government
B.       Second Most Likely Five-Year Regime Scenario: Bush Coalition
C.      Third Most Likely Five-Year Regime Scenario: Democratic Coalition
 
Reference: The PRS Group, Inc. 2001. ISSN: 1054-6278